The benefits of MCT Oil

MCT oil is short for Medium-Chain Triglycerides and has gained major popularity recently due to its range of potential health benefits that have made it extremely popular amongst health enthusiasts, those following a ketogenic diet and athletes. Let's dive into what it is, how it works and the various benefits it can have for you.

MCT oil is made of medium chain fatty acids which is a type of fat that is processed differently in the body to other long chain fatty acids found in other foods. The medium chain triglycerides are shorter in length making them easier for the body to absorb and turn into energy. Long chain fats need to be broken down in the digestive tract whilst MCT’s go directly to the liver where they are rapidly converted into ketones and used as a quick energy source. 

1. Caprylic Acid (C8)-microbial benefits and quick energy conversion.

2. Capric Acid (C10)-anti-inflammatory benefits and quickly converted into energy.

3. Lauric Acid (C12)-though its a long chain fatty acid it can be found in MCT oil because of its anti microbial properties. 

1. Boosts Energy levels and supports brain function-as they are rapidly converted in the liver into ketones they provide an immediate source of fuel for the body and brain. Super helpful for those on a low carbohydrate or ketogenic diet where the body relies on fat for energy. Ketones cross the blood-brain barrier giving the brain a stable source of energy improving mental clarity and cognitive function.

1. Weight Loss - Studies have shown that MCT oil promotes the release of hormones such as peptide YY and leptin that reduce hunger. MCT oil can also boost metabolism as they are metabolised directly in the liver where they have a thermogenic effect and therefore increase the number of calories burned. Medium chain fatty acids are less likely to be stored as fat as opposed to Long chain fatty acids so there is less risk of fat accumulation.

1. Athletic performance - Athletes use MCT oil as a quick energy source before competitions or workouts. Unlike carbohydrates which can cause a peak followed by a crash, MCT oil provides sustained energy which can improve endurance with no sudden drops during longer periods of physical activity.

1. Gut Health - MCT oil has antimicrobial properties that help can help improve overall gut health and the gut bacteria balance. The Caprylic acid (C8) in MCT oil has been proven to combat harmful bacteria, pathogens and yeast in the gut enhancing the gut microbiome. A healthy balanced gut flora is essential for overall wellbeing as well as immune function and digestion.

1. Neurological disorders and Epilepsy - MCT oil has been used for decades to treat epilepsy in children that no longer respond to conventional medication with some promising results. The ketones that are produced from MCT oil can give the brain an alternate energy source which can help manage the amount of seizures. Latest research also suggests that MCT may also be neuroprotective and can have help with Alzheimer’s disease by giving brain cells an alternate fuel instead of glucose.

1. Heart Health - Research suggests that MCT oil may be beneficial to cardiovascular health as it helps with high cholesterol and blood pressure. There is evidence that MCT oil can raise levels of HDL cholesterol (the good one) and even lower LDL cholesterol (the bad one) which are key to heart health. 

MCT oil is super versatile and can be easily added to your daily routine. It can be added to coffee, smoothies, salad dressings or even taken straight. It is important to start slowly to avoid gastro-intestinal disorders usually starting with 1 tsp and building up to 1/2 tbsp per day.

MCT oil is an amazing oil with a wide range of benefits ranging from energy, weights loss, brain function, reduced hunger, athletic performance and heart health. It is also extremely versatile and easy to add into a healthy lifestyle. As always its best to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet especially if you have underlying health conditions.